Flags will come down on Anzac Day, April 25 signifying the end of the surf patrol season. 2016/17 proved to be a bit of a mixed bag with rescue numbers declining but a number of fatalities recorded.

Far South Coast director of life saving Andrew Edmunds said this year sadly saw an increase in fatalities, with six being recorded in the region which stretches from Durras to the Victorian border.

“Last season we only had two drownings, so it’s very sad to see this number rising,” Mr Edmunds said.

“Some incidents this year were result of medical issues; however we’re keen to prevent as many as possible by encouraging people to swim at patrolled locations, and take precautions such as wearing a lifejacket while boating or fishing.”

Mr Edmunds said volunteer surf life savers were due for a well-earned rest and passed on his thanks to all members for their contributions.

“Our members have been patrolling diligently since the season commenced in September and responding to coastal emergencies, performing 102 rescues, 185 first aid treatments and over 1000 preventative actions,” he said.

Moruya SLSC also took on the new initiative of patrolling an additional beach at Shelly Beach over Christmas school holidays and Easter.

“This worked very well with extra coverage to keep patrons safe,” Mr Edmunds said.

“Our members were also well supported yet again by the Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopter and rescue jet skis at Broulee and Pambula and worked well with other emergency services including police, ambulance and marine rescue.”

While volunteer patrols will not resume until September at selected beaches, an after-hours emergency callout capability remains in place at all clubs. If you witness any in-water emergency be sure to call 000 and ask for the police.

Surf Life Saving Season 2016/17 statistics

Rescues 102

Attendance 57,477

First aid 185

Incidents requiring ambulance 6

Preventative actions 1049

Emergency Callout incidents: 37

Fatalities:

October 31, 2016 – man in his 50s died while Scuba diving at Kianinny Bay south of Tathra

November 20, 2016 – 43 year old Moruya man died at Pedro Point while diving.

December 1, 2016 – 54 year old male drowned at Garden Bay, near Malua Bay after failing to return from 4pm swim.